Caffeine-Free Remedies to Combat Fatigue – Dr. Jerry Hankins’ Blog

When you haven’t had your recommended seven hours of sleep, reaching for the first caffeinated beverage you see in the morning becomes almost instinctual. Unfortunately, not sleeping well and then relying on caffeine to get you through the day can contribute to a cycle of sleepless nights and stressful days. The effects of caffeine can take up to eight hours to wear off, causing you to feel jittery, anxious and affect your overall quality of sleep. Instead of reaching for the caffeine next time you’re feeling the strain of a sleepless night, try a natural, caffeine-free remedy.

Take a Break and Take a Walk

If you have a job where you sit in front of a computer screen all day or are continuously reading, make sure you are taking breaks regularly. Constant straining of the eyes can worsen feelings of fatigue. Make sure that you are periodically looking away from your computer screen or text and giving your eyes a chance to relax.

If you are still feeling fatigued, consider taking a brisk 10-minute walk. Movement increases the oxygen flow through your veins, to your muscles and to your brain. Breathing deeply will also raise blood oxygen levels in your body. This can improve your overall energy level by slowing down your heart rate, lowering your blood pressure and improving circulation throughout your body.

Lighting

Dim lightening can aggravate fatigue and even bring on feelings of depression. Turning up the lights in the room you are in can increase alertness and make you feel less tired.

However, if you’re feeling extremely fatigued, the best decision might require turning down the lights and taking a quick power nap, if possible. Try taking a five to twenty-five minute nap. Set an alarm to make sure you do not sleep much longer than half an hour. Be sure not to nap too close to your bedtime, and do not take more than one a day as this can also upset sleep patterns. If taking a nap is not an option, consider closing your eyes just and resting quietly for ten minutes.

Have a Snack

Drinking caffeine when you have not eaten much can upset your stomach. Instead of choosing caffeine, which will ultimately make you feel worse later in the day, try eating a healthy snack. Sugary snacks can be a problem, and can cause “sugar lows,” which can produce lethargy, after consumption. Try a healthier snack, like peanut butter, nuts, or fresh veggies, to wake you up and keep you focused.